Man Killed in 2022 Riviera Beach Shooting: Judge and Jury Determine Gunman’s Punishment

A 39-year-old man, Joetavius Jackson, has been sentenced to life in prison after being convicted of first-degree murder in connection with a deadly shooting that took place in Riviera Beach in 2022. The jury reached its verdict on January 17, 2025, finding Jackson guilty of killing 38-year-old Brian Vanhook during an incident on October 17, 2022, at the Azure Estates apartments on Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard.

Along with the murder conviction, Jackson was also found guilty of unlawful possession of a firearm. Following the jury’s decision, Circuit Judge Cymonie Rowe imposed the life sentence immediately, bringing the case to a close in the courtroom.

In response to the ruling, local law enforcement officials released a statement expressing their satisfaction with the life sentence, emphasizing the importance of justice for the victim and the community.

The statement from local law enforcement read, “Justice has been served.” It went on to highlight the significance of the sentence, underscoring the dedication of the Riviera Beach Police Department and its law enforcement collaborators in ensuring that individuals responsible for violent crimes are held accountable for their actions. The message conveyed a strong sense of commitment to upholding justice and maintaining safety within the community.

At the time of Joetavius Jackson’s arrest, police revealed that he had been involved in a conversation with Brian Vanhook and several other men outside a building at the complex, which was formerly known as the Stonybrook Apartments. According to investigators, moments before the shooting, Jackson walked away from the group and, after briefly stepping aside, pulled an object from his pocket. He then turned toward Vanhook and charged at him, extending his arm and firing what appeared to be a semiautomatic handgun.

The police investigation indicated that the fatal confrontation was sparked by a dispute over a cellphone. Jackson’s actions quickly escalated into violence, resulting in the tragic shooting. After fleeing the scene, Jackson was apprehended by law enforcement in Suwanee County, which is located approximately 70 miles north of Gainesville.